Juvéderm is one of the most popular injectable gel fillers with proven efficacy to temporarily plump skin’s volume and smooth wrinkles. This bacterial hyaluronic acid is cross-linked during the manufacturing process to turn the liquid formulation into gel for injection purposes. Results from Juvéderm treatments typically last six months to one year. With Juvéderm Ultra and Ultra Plus already U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for the American market, a Juvéderm new product was just recommended for approval.

On May 2, 2013 the FDA’s General and Plastic Surgery Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee voted unanimously about the benefits of Juvéderm Voluma. The potential Juvéderm treatment with the Voluma formulation is specifically targeted at cheek augmentation. The committee noted that the benefits of Voluma are superior for cheek augmentation that correct age-related volume deficit in the mid-face. The recommendation also signifies benefits outweigh the risks. If approved, this Juvéderm treatment with the Voluma formulation would be the first and only dermal filler in the United States with this indication for cheek augmentation with dermal fillers.

HOW JUVÉDERM TREATMENTS WORK

Juvéderm is a dermal filler injected into skin to promote a more youthful, healthy facial appearance. It specifically targets the eradication of wrinkles, counteracts sagging and replenishes plumpness in areas with loss of volume. Hyaluronic acid in tissue naturally decreases with aging and disruptive environmental factors, which results in loss of hydration. Juvéderm works by replacing hyaluronic acid in areas of volume loss, sagging and wrinkles. This increased hydration and plumping effect results in facial contours more youthful and smooth.

The Ultra formulation is typically used for minimal facial contouring and to eradicate wrinkles by adding volume at specific points. The Ultra Plus formulation typically used to add more intense volume to the face, as well as to eradicate deeper folds and wrinkles. The formulations are injected into the mid to deep dermis.

Hyaluronic acid, also known as hyaluronate or hyaluronan, is a natural sugar and a carbohydrate polymer found in the skin, muscles, tendons and joints.

juvederm-treatment information

A new Juvéderm treatment formulation called Voluma may be FDA approved by the end of 2013 specifically for cheek augmentation.

The two current Juvéderm treatment formulations treat the following:

  • Nasolabial folds (smile lines or parentheses)
  • Crow’s feet
  • Under the Eyes
  • Scar tissue
  • Lips
  • Acne scars

While both formulations are also currently used to enhance volume when used on the cheeks, Voluma addresses the issue better.

THE POTENTIAL FOR JUVÉDERM TREATMENTS WITH VOLUMA

The FDA’s General and Plastic Surgery Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee recommendation of Voluma means the formulation met necessary requirements in the trials and proved its efficacy for check augmentation. While some patients experienced minor swelling and/or tenderness at the injection site, it was concluded as temporary and similar to other Juvéderm treatment formulations. Scott M. Whitcup M.D., executive vice president, research and development, and chief scientific officer at Allergan, revealed that it’s “the first treatment option that has been specifically developed to help restore cheek volume that has been lost over time.” The company expects the FDA approval process to be complete by the end of 2013.